Cricketing world pays tribute to Crowe

Auckland, March 3 (IANS) The cricketing world paid tribute to New Zealand batting legend Martin Crowe, who died on Thursday aged 53 after fighting a long battle with cancer.

Widely regarded as his country’s best batsman, Crowe debuted as a 19-year-old, playing 77 Tests between 1982 and 1995. He scored 5,444 runs at an average of 45.37 with 17 centuries, more than any other New Zealander.

Crowe captained the Black Caps in 16 Tests and 44 One-Day Internationals (ODI). He played 143 ODIs, scoring 4,704 runs at an average of 38.55 with four centuries and 34 half-centuries.

Australia head coach Darren Lehmann tweeted on Thursday saying, “Sad to hear about the passing of Martin Crowe, our thoughts and prayers are with him and his family #RIP Legend. Loved knowing you.”

Among current cricketers, India Test captain Virat Kohli paid tribute tweeting: “RIP Martin Crowe, an absolute legend and an iconic star for the @BLACKCAPS My deepest condolences to his family and friends.”

Harbhajan Singh said: “RIP Martin Crowe….! condolences to the family and friends.”